Among them: Robert De Niro, Tom Hanks, Bruce Springsteen, Bill Gates, Diana Ross and Vin Scully. The Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to “security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.” DeGeneres has been vocal supporter of President Barack Obama, including throwing a fundraiser for the President’s re-election in 2012. President Obama will award Medals of Freedom to 21 recipients Tuesday.